Ketamine: a versatile tool for anesthesia and analgesia

William Barrett, Michael Buxhoeveden, Sabrina Dhillon

Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. 2020 Oct;33(5):633-638.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Ketamine has been used for decades for a variety of indications. Beyond the historical benefits and effects of ketamine, newer developments have occurred worthy of an update. This review will discuss common uses and indications for ketamine in the perioperative setting, as well as highlight newer indications in recent years.

Recent findings: Multiple studies have examined the use of ketamine in a variety of environments, as ketamine has become more popular in emergency rooms and ICUs. Ketamine may be particularly beneficial in management of burn patients, who often require multiple procedures over the course of their treatment. Ketamine's role in the ongoing opioid crisis has been of particular interest, with multiple studies evaluating its potential role in managing both acute and chronic pain conditions. Ongoing studies examining the role of ketamine in treatment of depressions show promise as well.

Summary: Ketamine is regaining popularity in the field of anesthesia and beyond. New studies provide insight on the many indications and use that anesthesia providers may encounter during their perioperative care of patients. Ongoing research is needed to further elucidate ketamine's effects on the management of psychiatric conditions and potential indications for ketamine metabolites.